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How Can You Stop a Puppy From Biting and Nipping While Playing?

By Rachell Ambrose, 26th August 2023

One of the most frustrating aspects of raising a puppy is nipping and biting. Puppies act as if nothing is off-limits and must position the entire thing out of their mouths like small babies. Except for operating on nipping behaviour as outlined underneath, please make sure you start with doggy-proofing your property to help keep them out of danger.

It’s normal for your puppy that they want to nip and chew on anything and everything they see. However, Their needle-sharp teeth can be very painful.

You don’t want your puppy to make a habit of nipping and biting for lifelong. Consistent training and redirection can prevent this. 

Why Your Puppy is Nipping

It would help if you understood why your puppy needs to change his training and management methods. It depends on the time and how they feel while nipping. 

 The Following Might be the Few Reasons Why Your Puppy is Nipping:

  • There are plenty of things for your puppy to do when bored. Puppies love exploring their world with their mouth by nipping and biting. 
  • They want your attention. Once a puppy learns that nipping works to get your attention, they’re likely to try it all the time. Work on teaching your puppy that an alternative behaviour, such as sitting, works even better
  • They might be hungry. Some puppies get nippier before mealtime.
  • Your puppy is tired. Then they might need a nap in their crate or a safe, quiet spot like their puppy zone if they’re excessively nipping.

Redirect to Toys.

You can think of investing in nipping “shields” to redirect their attention away from your hands or clothes. If puppies tend to nip a lot, try a stuffed toy if your dog doesn’t enjoy stuffies as much as moving hands and feet. 

Please make sure there are a few toys that are easy to grab in each room and offer one to your puppy before they bite your hands, feet, or clothing. Toys can be used to reward good behaviour by moving them around and playing tug with your puppy. 

Redirect to Training 

A perfect time to exercise well-mannered greetings and interactions with your pup is before they usually start to nip. Keep small amounts of puppy kibble or education treats on hand at all times on your property so that you’re always prepared to reward them for good behaviour.

 Place the handle in front of their nostril. You now have a chance to distract your dog with a toy, chew, or any other deal. 

Interrupt 

If your domestic dog nips you, use an interrupter cue. This will be an “eek!”, “ouch!” or “yip!” noise. It’s intended to make the pup pause their nipping, interrupting the behaviour. Puppies will do this at some point during play if one bites too hard.

By chance, even if your puppy puts enamel on your pores and skin, use the interrupter cue. Soon they will learn humans don’t tolerate touching them. If you’ve been working on teaching your puppy a good reputation, this is a great way to break bad behaviour. Praise them for looking at you, and don’t nip at them with toys and treats. 

Read https://www.talkytails.com/what-are-some-tips-for-a-first-time-puppy-owner/